How to Prepare Your Image Files for Printing

Short Summary

This article explains how to prepare image files before ordering prints from The Stackhouse.

Quick Answer

For the smoothest print order, upload a JPEG, PNG, or TIFF file in RGB color mode with an embedded color profile when possible. Choose the final print size first, check that the image has enough pixels for that size, and review the crop preview before adding the product to your cart.

Before You Begin

• Know the print size and product type you want before exporting the final file.
• Use a flattened copy for upload and keep your layered master file for editing.
• Use RGB color mode. CMYK files may be blocked by the upload system.
• Use one final image file for each product you are ordering.

How It Works

Step 1: Choose the final print size

Decide the size and product first so you can judge the image at the size it will actually print. If you are unsure, review How to Choose the Right Print Size for Your Images.

Step 2: Check image resolution

Check the file's pixel dimensions against the final print size. A strong target is 300 PPI at final print size, but the best size depends on the artwork, viewing distance, product, and crop.

Step 3: Use RGB color mode

Save the print-ready file in RGB color mode. If your file is CMYK, convert it before uploading using How to Convert Your File from CMYK to RGB.

Step 4: Export a supported upload format

Export a flattened JPEG, PNG, or TIFF file. PSD, AI, and InDesign files are not supported by the standard upload flow.

Step 5: Upload and review the crop preview

Upload the file on the product page, choose the print size, and review the crop preview carefully before adding the item to your cart.

Important Notes

• Image quality is based on usable pixels at the selected print size, not only the DPI value saved in the file metadata.
• If the crop preview says the image quality is too low, choose a smaller print size, select a larger crop area, or upload a higher-resolution file.
• Files without an embedded color profile may still upload, but colors can shift during processing and printing.
• Transparent images may need to be flattened onto a solid background before uploading.

Examples

Example 1: A 12x18 photo print

A file that is 3600x5400 pixels has enough pixels for 12x18 at 300 PPI before cropping.

Example 2: A large canvas from a small web image

A small image downloaded from social media may upload poorly or fail the selected print size. Use the original high-resolution file whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upload a PSD, AI, or InDesign file?

No. Export the artwork as a JPEG, PNG, or TIFF before uploading.

Should I use RGB or CMYK?

Use RGB. CMYK files may be blocked, and RGB is the expected color mode for Stackhouse upload and print workflows.

Is 300 PPI required for every print?

300 PPI at final print size is a strong target for high-quality prints. Lower-resolution files may still be usable in some cases, but size options and final sharpness may be limited.

Related Articles

• How to Upload Your Files
• How to Check Your Image Resolution
• How to Convert Your File from CMYK to RGB
• General Image Export Settings

Need More Help?

If you still need assistance, submit a Help Center request with the product type, intended print size, file format, and any upload or preview error message you are seeing.